In April 2025, South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) received funding from the Department for Transport to help improve local roads in Barnsley, Doncaster and Rotherham. This money has been passed on to Local Highway Authorities so they can include it in their existing work plans.
Keeping roads, pavements, and other parts of the highway network in good condition is an essential part of providing a safe, reliable transport system for everyone, whether you drive, walk, cycle, or use public transport.
This funding supports a wide range of repairs and maintenance, including:
- Resurfacing roads and cycle paths
- Fixing broken pavements
- Maintaining bridges, tunnels, retaining walls and other highway structures
Each local council decides how best to use the funding based on the needs of their area. It’s not just about fixing potholes; it’s about keeping the whole highway network in good shape.
Sharing Progress and Staying Transparent
As part of the funding conditions, councils are asked to report on how the money is being used. This helps the government, and the public understand where improvements are being made and supports the case for future investment.
These reporting requirements follow recommendations from the National Audit Office and the Public Accounts Committee, which looked into the condition and maintenance of local roads in England. You can read the full report here: The Condition and Maintenance of Local Roads in England
The Department for Transport expects all local highways authorities to publish information about their highways maintenance activities to help local taxpayers see the difference that funding is making in their areas.
